Tuesday, November 07, 2006

My Cup Overflows...

I have been in Auburn for a little over four months now. I think it is safe to say that these have been some of the most amazing and most challenging days of my life. I absolutely love my job and the students I have the joy of working with each day. It has been a rich experience for me so far and I am confident the Lord led me to this place. I am reminded of that almost daily.

But...it is to leave a place like Asbury where community is practically a part of the curriculum and come to a place where I know no one. I am realizing only now what a unique place Asbury is and what a beautiful thing (imperfect as it is/was!) the community is there. I miss the friends I made there everyday.

It has been a rough road for me here personally. I have never felt loneliness the way I have felt it here. There have been many tears and many lonely nights. Outside of my job, I really know no one. I am making friends with some people in my Sunday School class, but it is a slow process.

However, in the midst of the heartache and tears (and there have been many tears...), I have encountered God in some unexpected ways. Old friends I haven't talked to in ages have randomly written and/or called me and all of my friends have been so good to me from a distance.

I have been reminded that though I know no one here, I am known. I am known by God and loved in spite of me. He delights in me and he can and will take care of me. I am known by my family and loved more than I deserve. I have the privilege and honor of knowing and being known by five of the most exceptional people in the world (and two nephews that are equally exceptional!!). May that not be lost on me. Finally, I am known and loved by people in Arkansas, Ohio, California, Kentucky, Louisiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Nevada, Zimbabwe and so many other places. These people encourage me daily with their prayers and love me deeply.